The satellite experienced solar flare after launch (11 Apr 1997) and its solar
arrays have experienced problems. The satellite is said to suffer from
"temporary power fluctuations". It is also claimed that the satellite was not
operating normally before the solar flare. Up to 4 transponders might be out of
order.
TSAT did not accept the satellite (as of Nov 1997) since it is believed that
only 85% of the design output power can be achieved. It the satellite is not
usable, SS/L has 29 months to provide a replacement satellite.